Säpo Warned About Fitness App Seven Years Ago

Following revelations that the Prime Minister's security guards have exposed his location through fitness apps, TV4 Nyheterna reports that Säpo was warned about the app's risks seven years ago.

Earlier this week, DN revealed that Säpo's bodyguards have exposed the locations of the individuals they are tasked to protect by logging their workouts on various fitness apps. Both the royal couple and the Prime Minister have been traceable in this manner for several years.

Now, TV4 Nyheterna reveals that Säpo was alerted about the fitness app in question, Strava, over seven years ago.

– It was quite clear that with this app, one can leave behind public information unless it is significantly restricted, says the informant to the TV channel.

Also Exposed American Military Bases

In 2018, Säpo was warned against using the app after American soldiers logged their training.

According to American media reports when the leak was discovered, the information in the app could be used to map American military bases worldwide.

TV4 Nyheterna's source, who has insight into the Swedish Security Service's work, states that employees were warned at that time.

– I feel a great frustration and irritation that something that has been known as a vulnerability for a long time has now occurred within the Swedish security service. It's embarrassing, says the source.

The informant questions whether the information provided to employees about the app was sufficient and suggests it may be a systemic issue, while also emphasizing individual responsibility not to download the app.